Like many Africans, the Ewe people of coastal Ghana are
very fond of children. They say that an adult who does not yet have a
son or daughter of their own, has yet to experience true happiness. Throughout
Africa, children are a welcome addition to any home, and their arrival
into a family is a time for rejoicing for several
reasons.

However, not until a newborn is at least a few months old does the
family celebrate their arrival. This often takes place throughout Africa
during the name giving ceremony. While Americans send out birth announcements
soon after an infant is born (and some hospitals even post a picture
and announcement on the world wide web!), most Africans don't celebrate
or name a new baby until much later. Why
do you think they wait?

Click on the objects below to explore artworks that represent children
or are used by children.